posted by Patricia Hohl
Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton gave a landmark speech last week before the UN in Geneva in recognition of International Human Rights Day. She said, in part:
Universal human rights include freedom of expression and freedom of belief, even if our words or beliefs denigrate the humanity of others. Yet, while we are each free to believe whatever we choose, we cannot do whatever we choose, not in a world where we protect the human rights of all.
Reaching understanding of these issues takes more than speech. It does take a conversation. In fact, it takes a constellation of conversations in places big and small. And it takes a willingness to see stark differences in belief as a reason to begin the conversation, not to avoid it.
Read or watch the speech at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2011/12/178368.htm